Veterans Industries program helps veterans gain employment

Veterans Industries program helps veterans gain employment

Don Newell and Leland Mire recently were recognized as employees of the year by Veterans Industries of Chillicothe.

Newell, of Frankfort, has been employed as a machine operator for the past 11 months at DuPont in Circleville. Mire, of Chillicothe, is employed by Goodwill Industries as a janitor.

Veterans Industries (VI) is the business component of the Vocational Rehabilitation program at the Chillicothe Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Other elements include incentive therapy, day treatment, compensated work therapy, transitional work experience, vocational counseling and psychosocial skills training.

Newell, originally from Columbus, came to VA Chillicothe in November 2003 after family members made him aware of the program. He said his VI counselors stressed everyone is willing to help. He singled out Roger Gordley and Sandy Lawless for special appreciation, particularly Lawless’ “Job Club” sessions designed to help veterans prepare themselves for the job market.

Mire credits counselor Patty Leach for helping coordinate his case with the requirements of other agencies and assistance programs such as the Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation, Job and Family Services, Residency State Supplemental and others.

Mire said he is grateful for the patience of VA staff in helping him realize his goal to become more involved in the community.

“I always knew I had the ability but I also knew I didn’t always apply myself,” said Mire.

Newell said he thinks the Veterans Industries program gives any veteran a better chance at gaining employment, not only because of the preparation and skills training, but also because of little extras, such as transportation to interview sites and help with applications.

Both veterans are proud of their accomplishments. Newell said his employment at DuPont has provided him with “good hours, good benefits and lots of good co-workers.” Mirer said he was “surprised and overwhelmed” with the recognition and hopes it will be a stepping-stone to his goal of long-term stability.

Any veteran eligible for VA Healthcare is eligible for the Vocational Rehabilitation program. For more information contact one of the 108 VA Medical Center’s Vocational Rehabilitation program offices nearest you.  http://www1.va.gov/Vetind/page.cfm?pg=4